FIA force Red Bull star to complete mandatory t…read more
In a major development ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix, the FIA has officially approved 17-year-old Red Bull junior driver Arvid Lindblad to make his Formula 1 debut during the FP1 (Free Practice 1) session at Silverstone. Lindblad, who is not yet 18, received special permission from the FIA to obtain a super licence before reaching the minimum age requirement, following impressive performances in his rookie F2 season.
Lindblad will temporarily replace Yuki Tsunoda for the first practice session, partnering with three-time world champion Max Verstappen for the outing. The decision highlights Red Bull’s confidence in the rising star, whose early achievements in Formula 2 have captured attention across the motorsport world. Driving for Campos Racing, Lindblad has already secured two race wins in his debut campaign, demonstrating both speed and consistency.
Before being cleared to participate in an official F1 session, the FIA mandates that all new drivers must undergo a series of safety and readiness assessments. One of the primary tests involves a rapid exit procedure, where the driver must demonstrate the ability to exit the car within 12 seconds. This includes seven seconds to get out of the cockpit and an additional five seconds to reinstall the steering wheel, all in the presence of an FIA technical delegate. Lindblad successfully completed this procedure, satisfying one of the most crucial safety checks required for Formula 1 debutants.
This test isn’t exclusive to rookies. In fact, all F1 drivers—regardless of their experience—must undergo the same exit evaluation at the beginning of each season, especially when transitioning to a new chassis or cockpit setup. Even seasoned veterans like Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso are not exempt, emphasizing the FIA’s stringent approach to safety across the grid.
In addition to the exit test, the FIA also evaluates the cockpit fit for each driver, ensuring that there’s enough clearance between the driver’s knees and the steering column. This step is essential for ensuring a driver can safely maneuver in and out of the car, especially in emergency situations. The cockpit is custom-tailored for every driver’s height and build, and must meet specific technical standards.
Alongside Lindblad, another young talent, Paul Aron, is also preparing for a potential debut during the British Grand Prix weekend, marking a significant moment for the sport’s next generation. These opportunities are often used by teams to evaluate the capabilities of their junior drivers and expose them to the demands of Formula 1.
Lindblad’s participation in FP1 will offer a valuable glimpse into his potential at the top level of motorsport. The opportunity not only rewards his excellent form in Formula 2 but also serves as a stepping stone toward a possible full-time seat in the future. As fans prepare for an action-packed weekend at Silverstone, all eyes will be on the young Brit-Swede as he takes his first steps in Formula 1.
